The foot-powered spring pole lathe is an important tool in the history of European and Scandinavian wooden material culture. Turned wooden bowls, cups, and plates were the main tableware from at least Viking times until the 19th century. The pole lathe was developed from archetypal strap and bow lathes whose origins go back at least 3000 years.The lathe itself is said to be one of the most important machine tools invented.
Join North House instructor Jarrod Dahl, a leading practitioner of pole lathe turning as he shares some of the history and use of this important machine. He’ll discuss various styles of lathe and their construction, demonstrate turning techniques while turning a bowl and look at hook tools, end grain turning, and objects made by pole lathes including antiques and replicas he’s collected and made while doing research in the historic turning region near Borås, Sweden. Jarrod has a forthcoming book on pole lathe turning with Lost Art Press. Find out more about Jarrod and his work here: www.woodspirithandcraft.com